NEBRASKA CITY- Former Husker Damon Benning told his Big Red Buzz audience at Valentino’s in Nebraska City on Thursday that his preseason optimism for Nebraska football is higher than it’s been in years.

Benning, an analyst on the Husker Radio Network,  said his optimism is based on the prospect for a stronger special teams unit, the pairing of a highly talented quarterback with a proven offensive coordinator, and an offensive line that could be the team’s biggest strength.

Benning: “The strength of this team right now, as I see it, is definitely up front on the offensive side of the ball. They are strong, athletic, experienced and well-coached. That kind of leaves you excited.”

While Nebraska’s receivers and tight ends may ultimately be the best playmakers, Benning expects the coaching staff to lean heavily on the running game.

Benning: “When your offensive line has proven to be really good run blockers and road graders, you probably want to get on those guys’ hips. It’s been a long time since Nebraska could play 10 offensive linemen with that much starting experience.”

At quarterback, Benning said Dylan Raiola should benefit from Dana Holgorsen’s first full season as offensive coordinator. Holgorsen’s teams have consistently scored at a high rate, never ranking lower than 53rd nationally in points per game and only once averaging fewer than 27 points. Nebraska, by comparison, averaged 23.5 last year.

 

 

Benning said improvements on special teams alone could make up six points. He forecasts a Raiola/Holgorsen offense to finish drives inside the opponent’s 45 yard line.

On defense, Benning praised the staff’s ability to teach—a key factor with so many young players.

Benning: “They’re going to be young in some spots, and they’ll have to get old in a hurry if they want to do the things they think they’re capable of.”

The promotion of John Butler to defensive coordinator, Benning noted, preserves practice continuity and reinforces a physical style of play.

Benning: “I like the preparation. I haven’t been this optimistic in a long time.”